The Aug. 2 celebration at Our Lady of the Americas will feature live bands, folkloric dance and food from several Latin American traditions.
By Hola Iowa
Festival de la Jamaica will bring live music, folkloric dance and Latin American food to Des Moines on Sunday, Aug. 2.
The community celebration will run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Our Lady of the Americas, 1271 E. 9th St. Admission is free, and families are welcome.
Esencia Añeja and Incomparable Banda Sensación are scheduled to perform during the festival. The program will also include folkloric dance and other cultural presentations centered on faith, family and the traditions represented within the parish community.
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Pupusas, tacos and tamales are on the menu
The planned food selection includes pupusas, tacos, tortas ahogadas, carnitas, ceviche and tamales.
Festivalgoers will also find elotes, raspados, mangonadas, churros and aguas frescas. Admission to the event is free, but individual food prices have not been published.
Live bands and folkloric dance headline the program
Esencia Añeja and Incomparable Banda Sensación will provide live music during the day. Folkloric dance and other cultural performances will add traditions from across the Latino community to the program.
The festival is organized by Our Lady of the Americas, a Catholic parish that serves Spanish-speaking and bilingual families in the Des Moines area.
Festival date, hours and location
- Date: Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Location: Our Lady of the Americas
- Address: 1271 E. 9th St., Des Moines, IA 50316
- Admission: Free
For additional information, call (515) 266-6695 or visit the Our Lady of the Americas website.
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